13 Physics Research Programs for High School Students in Florida
If you’re a high school student interested in physics, research programs can help you go beyond classroom learning. These programs allow you to explore topics like quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and materials science through guided projects and experiments. You also gain experience in coding, data analysis, and experimental design while working with mentors who help you understand how scientific ideas are tested and developed.
Why should you attend a program in Florida?
Florida is home to universities like the University of Florida and the University of Central Florida, which offer research opportunities in physics. You might analyze astronomical data, contribute to laboratory experiments, or participate in engineering projects connected to fields such as optics and plasma physics. Whether you’re a local student or traveling from out of state, Florida’s strong research community and university resources make it an excellent place to explore physics and build valuable academic experience.
To help you get started, here are 13 physics research programs for high school students in Florida.
If you are looking for internships in Florida, check out our blog here.
1. Young Scholars Program - Florida State University
Location: Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL
Cost: None
Dates: June 7 – July 18
Application Deadline: February 15
Eligibility: Florida students who have completed Grade 11 (rare exceptions for exceptional Grade 10 students); minimum 3.0 GPA; 90th percentile math score on a nationally standardized exam; enrolled in or have completed Pre-Calculus
In this six-week residential program, you will explore advanced topics like modern physics, quantum computing, and nuclear research while working in FSU’s professional laboratories. You will spend your weeks conducting independent laboratory research, attending specialized STEM courses, and presenting your final findings at a formal academic conference. This unique opportunity is entirely free, covering all housing and tuition costs to ensure you can focus fully on your development as a young scientist. Through direct faculty mentorship, you will master complex data analysis and sharpen your technical communication skills. These immersive activities help you build the professional confidence and technical proficiency necessary for a high-level career in physics.
2. Veritas AI Fellowship
Location: Online
Cost: Varies depending on the program type; full financial aid is available
Dates: Year-round cohorts available, including Summer, Winter, Fall, and Spring
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November); apply here
Eligibility: Students who have either completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python
In the Veritas AI Fellowship, you spend twelve weeks building an original, independent research project under the guidance of a PhD mentor. You will explore advanced topics including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and AI ethics. During the program, you will conduct literature reviews, clean complex datasets, and develop unique models to solve real-world problems. The program’s unique feature is its focus on producing a publication-ready research paper, providing a professional-grade portfolio for your future. Through this process, you will master Python and data science while gaining vital skills in technical writing and critical analysis.
3. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP)
Location: Labs in Jacksonville, Orlando, Panama City, and Patrick Space Force Base in Florida
Stipend: New participants: $4,000; Returning participants: $4,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Less than 10%; 5–15 students annually
Dates: 8-week summer internship, with optional 2-week extension
Application Deadline: November 1
Eligibility: High school students who are 16 or older, are U.S. citizens, and have completed at least 9th grade, including graduating seniors; some labs may have extra requirements
Through the SEAP program in Florida, you can explore professional physics research in fields like optics, plasma physics, acoustics, and advanced materials. You will spend eight weeks in a Navy laboratory performing hands-on tasks such as collecting experimental data, running computer simulations, and presenting your final findings to senior scientists. You receive direct mentorship from Department ofthe Navy experts within specialized government facilities, all while earning a competitive stipend. You will develop advanced skills in technical writing, data analysis, and specialized lab methodologies that standard classrooms rarely provide. This apprenticeship effectively bridges the gap between high school theory and real-world application, giving you a professional edge in your future scientific career.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program – Physics Track
Location: Online
Cost: Varies depending on the program type; full financial aid is available
Dates: Multiple cohorts offered throughout the year, including Summer, Fall, Spring, and Winter
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November). You can apply here.
Eligibility: Currently enrolled high school students who demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (accepted students typically maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.3 or higher)
The Physics track of the Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the opportunity to conduct an independent research project in physics under one-on-one mentorship from a PhD researcher. You explore an advanced topic of interest, such as theoretical physics, astrophysics, quantum mechanics, or applied physics - while learning how to frame a research question, review scientific literature, and develop a structured academic paper or equivalent scholarly output. The program is designed for motivated students who want a rigorous introduction to real research experiences and are comfortable with higher-level math and physics concepts. At the end, you may qualify for a USCD Extended Studies credit.
5. AFRL Scholars Program (Eglin Air Force Base)
Location: Eglin Air Force Base (Munitions Directorate), Valparaiso/Shalimar, Florida
Cost/Stipend: No cost / $506.80 stipend
Dates: June 1 – July 27
Application Deadline: January 10
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens and enrolled or accepted to an educational institution, and are at least 16 years old by the application deadline; check the detailed eligibility criteria here
At Eglin Air Force Base, the AFRL Scholars Program offers you a competitive, paid internship focused on the physics of modern defense technology. You will explore specialized topics like munitions aerodynamics, materials science, electromagnetics, and sensor technology while working within high-security laboratory environments. During the summer, you’ll conduct hands-on experiments, analyze complex data, and present your final findings to professional Air Force scientists. This program enables you to tackle actual defense challenges under the direct mentorship of expert researchers rather than doing simple simulations. This immersive experience effectively bridges the gap between high school theory and a professional scientific career.
6. NASA OSTEM High School Internships – Kennedy Space Center
Location: Kennedy Space Center (Merritt Island, FL); some hybrid/virtual options available
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid based on academic level and session duration, amount not specified
Dates: Multiple cohorts available year–round, including Summer, which is between early June and August
Application Deadline: Summer: February 28
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years old at the time of application, U.S. citizens, and have a 3.0 GPA
The NASA OSTEM internship offers you a hands-on start in physics research through projects like space crop production and advanced air mobility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. You’ll explore themes like Moon to Mars and Space Technology, covering topics from microgravity and aerospace engineering to AI and robotics. During your stay, you’ll analyze satellite signals, test robotic hardware, and develop simulation software using industry tools like Unity. You receive direct mentorship from NASA personnel and contribute to real mission objectives. This experience effectively bridges the gap between your high school curriculum and space exploration.
7. QuarkNet Summer Research (UF/FSU/UCF)
Location: Gainesville (UF), Tallahassee (FSU), and Orlando (UCF)
Cost/Stipend: No cost / Stipend paid, amount not specified
Dates: 6–8 weeks during June and July
Application Deadline: Typically, mid-April
Eligibility: High school students (typically rising juniors/seniors) local to the university area
The QuarkNet Summer Research program at Florida universities like UF, FSU, or UCF immerses you in particle physics through collaboration with expert faculty. You will cover topics including the Standard Model, cosmic rays, relativity, forces, and the fundamental structure of matter. During the program, you’ll engage in activities like building muon detectors, analyzing authentic CERN data, attending seminars, and presenting results. This experience provides direct access to professional laboratories, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world research. Ultimately, you gain essential skills in data analysis, coding, and scientific communication.
8. UCF PREM (Partnership for Research and Education in Materials) – High School Summer Internship Program
Location: UCF Main Campus & UCF Medical Campus (Lake Nona), Orlando, FL
Cost/Stipend: No cost / $1,000 stipend
Dates: June 9 – July 18
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: High School juniors and seniors (Aged 16+)
In this program, you dive into advanced physics research by exploring quantum materials, nanotechnology, and energy conversion systems through the UCF PREM initiative. You will spend your summer conducting hands-on lab experiments, attending professional development seminars, and working closely with faculty mentors on real-world scientific problems. Throughout the internship, you develop technical skills like data analysis and materials characterization while sharpening your ability to communicate complex findings to a professional audience. By the end, you will have gained the practical expertise and confidence necessary to pursue a competitive career in STEM.
9. MagLab High School Externship
Location: National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL
Cost: None
Dates: September – May
Application Deadline: July 28
Eligibility: High school students currently enrolled in their school’s official Externship Program
Through the MagLab High School Externship in Tallahassee, you dive into high-field physics and materials science by working directly with world-class researchers. Throughout the school year, you explore topics like electromagnetism and superconductivity while engaging in hands-on activities such as testing specimens at cryogenic temperatures, collecting experimental data, and operating advanced lab equipment. You receive long-term, personal mentorship, which culminates in you presenting an original research poster to the professional scientific community. This immersive experience effectively transforms your classroom knowledge into practical expertise, giving you a significant head start in the field of physics research.
10. Saturday Morning Physics (FSU)
Location: Richards Building (UPL), Room 101, FSU Main Campus, Tallahassee, FL (with select sessions at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory)
Cost: None
Dates: Saturdays in the Fall (Late September through November);
Application Deadline: No deadline; walk-ins are welcome; no registration required
Eligibility: All high school students
In this program, you will explore a wide range of topics, including nuclear physics, quantum materials, the mechanics of spinning objects, and the mysteries of the universe. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities, such as modeling atomic nuclei with magnetic spheres, designing rockets, and taking exclusive tours of high-tech facilities, including the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and a superconducting linear accelerator. By attending, you develop critical thinking and observation skills while gaining a realistic perspective on what a career in scientific research entails. It’s a low-pressure environment where your curiosity is the only prerequisite for understanding how cutting-edge physics impacts the world around you.
11. Student Science Training Program (SSTP) - University of Florida
Location: University of Florida Campus, Gainesville, Florida
Cost: $5,500 + $50 non-refundable application fee; limited need-based scholarships are available (primarily for Florida residents)
Dates: June 7 – July 25
Application Deadline: Out-of-state students: April 1; Florida residents: April 15
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors (entering 12th grade) who are at least 16 years old by the program start date
The University of Florida’s Student Science Training Program (SSTP) is a seven-week residential experience where you explore physics specializations like astrophysics, biophysics, condensed matter, and particle physics. During the program, you will conduct 30 hours of weekly lab research, attend daily faculty lectures, and participate in interdisciplinary honors seminars. To share your results, you will write a formal scientific research paper, design a professional poster, and deliver two oral presentations. The program also enables you to earn dual enrollment college credits while receiving direct mentorship from world-class university faculty. This immersive environment effectively transforms you into a capable researcher ready for university-level physics.
12. Research Immersion in Science and Engineering (RISE) - University of Florida
Location: University of Florida (Residential)
Cost: TBA (historically ~$800–$1,000) + $20 non-refundable application fee (need-based scholarships available for Florida students)
Dates: Session 1: June 7–12; Session 2: July 12–17
Application Deadline: April 15
Eligibility: High school students entering grade 10
Through the UF RISE program, you will dive into physics research by exploring topics like light mechanics, optics in photography, and astrophysics. You will participate in hands-on experiments, attend faculty seminars, and tour active research laboratories to see how theories are applied in real time. The program features a culminating group project, where you collaborate with peers to solve complex technical problems. By living on campus and working with mentors, you’ll master skills like data analysis, scientific reasoning, and professional communication. This experience effectively bridges the gap between high school learning and the iterative cycle of modern scientific innovation.
13. Stanford Program for Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Physics (SPINWIP)
Location: Online
Cost: None
Dates: July 7 – July 25
Application Deadline: Typically, early May
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9–11 at the time of application; students of any gender; international students welcome; first-generation and under-resourced students particularly encouraged
In this three-week virtual program, you will dive into the world of physics research by exploring advanced topics like astrophysics, quantum physics, and particle physics. You’ll spend your time learning to code in Python, attending lectures from world-class researchers, and participating in small-group projects that mirror real-world scientific inquiry. What makes this program truly unique is its focus on supporting high school girls and non-binary students through a completely free, online environment that prioritizes mentorship and community. By the end of the session, you’ll have a stronger grasp of complex research methodologies and the confidence to pursue further studies in the field.
Image source - NASA